Air conditioner

ABSTRACT

A humidity control device includes a first adsorption element ( 81 ) and a second adsorption element ( 82 ). A first filter ( 301 ) is provided under the first adsorption element ( 81 ), while a second filter ( 302 ) is provided under the second adsorption element ( 82 ). The humidity control device performs first operation and second operation alternately. Directions of air flowing through the respective filters ( 301, 302 ) are reversed between the first operation and the second operation. Reversal of the direction of the air flowing through each filter ( 301, 302 ) removes dust and the like from each filter ( 301, 302 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an air conditioner for supplyingtreated air into a room and the like.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, a ventilation system including a generally-called totalheat exchanger (503) has been known as one type of air conditioners. Asshown in FIG. 39, the ventilation system includes an air supply path(501) for supplying outdoor air indoors, and an air exhaust path (502)for discharging room air outdoors. Wherein, “OA”, “SA”, “RA”, and “EA”mean outdoor air, air (supply air) supplied indoors, room air, and air(exhaust air) discharged outdoors, respectively.

The total heat exchanger (503) includes a first passage (504) and asecond passage (505), wherein the first passage (504) is arranged in theair supply path (501) and the second passage (505) is arrange in the airexhaust path (502). At each upstream side of the first passage (504) andthe second passage (505), a filter (506, 507) is provide so that no dustor the like enters inside of the total heat exchanger (503).

In the above ventilation system, outdoor air sucked in the air supplypath (501) passes through the first passage (504) of the total heatexchanger (503), to be supplied indoors, while room air sucked in theair exhaust path (502) passes through the second passage (505) of thetotal heat exchanger (503), to be discharged outdoors. In the total heatexchanger (503), heat and moisture are exchanged between the outdoor airpassing through the first passage (504) and the room air passing throughthe second passage (505).

Further, a humidity control device as disclosed in, for example,Japanese Patent Application Laid Open Publication No. 9-329371A has beenknown as another air conditioner. This humidity control device, whichincludes an adsorption element for adsorbing moisture in air,dehumidifies supply air for ventilation by the adsorption element, tosupply the dehumidified air indoors, and regenerates the adsorptionelement by exhaust air for ventilation.

The present inventors applied the above ventilation system with thetotal heat exchanger (503), to devise a ventilation system with anadsorption element having the following humidity control and coolingpassages, in lieu to the total heat exchanger (503) in theaforementioned ventilation system. Namely, the humidity control passagefor allowing the adsorption element to adsorb moisture in the airflowing therein and the cooling passage for cooling the adsorptionelement warmed by adsorption heat by the air flowing therein areprovided at the air supply path (501) and at the air exhaust path (502),respectively. With this construction, outdoor air is dehumidified andsupplied indoors and the adsorption element is cooled by utilizing theroom air to be discharged outdoors.

Means of Solving the Problems—

However, direct application to the conventional construction involvesthe following problems.

Conventionally, the air in each air path flows in one direction, andtherefore, considerable amounts of dust and the like are deposited onthe filters after long-term operation, thereby inviting performancedegradation and lifetime shortening of the total heat exchanger and theadsorption element. For example, in a ventilation system installed in abuilding facing a road, outdoor air includes a large amount of dust andmuch dust is deposited on filters on the outdoor side. This is thesignificant problem.

To tackling this problem, periodic filter cleaning is considered forpreventing performance degradation and lifetime shortening of the totalheat exchanger and the adsorption element. However, the device for whichperiodic cleaning is inevitable involves a considerable burden onmaintenance and may invite increase in maintenance cost.

In an air conditioner including an air conditioning element such as atotal heat exchanger, an adsorption element, and the like, the presentinvention has been made in view of the above problems and has its objectof preventing performance degradation and extending lifetime of the airconditioning element while reducing a burden on maintenance andmaintenance const.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In the present invention, a filter is provided for an air conditioningelement of an air conditioner and the direction of air flowing in pathsare reversed between in normal operation and in cleaning operation, sothat the filter captures dust during the normal operation and dust andthe like adhered to the filter is removed automatically by air duringthe cleaning operation.

The first invention in the above invention is directed to an airconditioner, comprising: air paths (53, 54, . . . ) that communicatewith either or both of a first space (311) and a second space (312); anair conditioning element (81, 82, . . . ) for adjusting at least one oftemperature and humidity of air flowing in the air paths (53, 54, . . .) toward the second space (312); a filter (301, 302, . . . ) forcapturing a foreign matter in air flowing in the air paths (53, 54, . .. ) from the first space (311) toward the air conditioning element (81,82, . . . ); and air conveying means (95, 96) that conveys the air inthe air paths (53, 54, . . . ), wherein the air of which at least one oftemperature and humidity is adjusted is supplied to the second space(312). In the air conditioner, normal operation in which air passes inthe air paths (53, 54, . . . ) through the filter (301, 302, . . . ),and then, through the air conditioning element (81, 82, . . . ), to besupplied to the second space (312); and cleaning operation in which airpasses in the air paths (53, 54, . . . ) through the air conditioningelement (81, 82, . . . ), and then, through the filter (301, 302, . . .), to be discharged to the first space (311) are performable.

In the air conditioner of the first invention, during the normaloperation, the air taken in from the first space (311) passes throughthe filter (301, 302, . . . ), and then, flows into the air conditioningelement (82, 82, . . . ) in the air paths (53, 54, . . . ). When the airpasses through the filter (301, 302, . . . ), dust and the like includedin the air are captured at the filter (301, 302, . . . ). In the normaloperation, dust and the like removed from the air are graduallydeposited on the filter (301, 302, . . . ). The air cleaned by thefilter (301, 302, . . . ) is subjected to treatment in the airconditioning element (81, 82, . . . ) so that either or both thetemperature and the humidity thereof is/are adjusted. The air that hasbeen subjected to the treatment in the air conditioning element (81, 82,. . . ) is supplied to the second space (312).

On the other hand, during the cleaning operation in the above airconditioner, the air taken in from the second space (312) passes throughthe air conditioning element (81, 82, . . . ), and then, through thefilter (301, 302, . . . ). In other words, the direction of the airflowing through the filter (301, 302, . . . ) is reversed between thecleaning operation and the normal operation. In this connection, dustand the like deposited on the filter in the normal operation are removedfrom the filter (301, 302, . . . ) by the air flow in the cleaningoperation, and then, are discharged to the first space (311). In thisway, dust and the like deposited on the filter (301, 302, . . . ) in thenormal operation are removed automatically to clean the filter (301,302, . . . ) in the cleaning operation.

The second invention is directed to the air conditioner of the firstinvention, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), and adsorption operation as the normal operation,in which the air from the first space (311) flows through the filter(301, 302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order to allowthe adsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisture in the air, and then,is supplied to the second space (312); and regeneration operation as thecleaning operation in which the air from the second space (312) flowsthrough the adsorption element (81, 82) and the filter (301, 302) inthis order to regenerate the adsorption element (81, 82) by the air, andthen, is discharged to the first space (311) are performed selectively.

In the air conditioner of the second invention, the air from the firstspace (311) passes through the filter (301, 302) and the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in this order during the adsorption operation. This airis cleaned by the filter (301, 302), is dehumidified by the adsorptionelement (81, 82), and then, is supplied to the second space. In thistreatment, dust and the like removed from the air is deposited on thefilter (301, 302). On the other hand, during the regeneration operation,the air from the second space (312) passes through the adsorptionelement (81, 82) and the filter (301, 302) in this order. This airregenerates the adsorption element (81, 82), removes dust and the likefrom the filter (301, 302), and then, is discharged to the first space(311). Namely, dust and the like deposited on the filter (301, 302) inthe adsorption operation are removed automatically to clean the filter(301, 302) in the regeneration operation.

The third invention is directed to the air conditioner of the firstinvention, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), a first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) as thefilter is provided on the first space (311) side of the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), a second space side filter(301 b, 302 b) is provided on the second space (312) side of theadsorption element (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), and adsorptionoperation as the normal operation in which the air from the first space(311) flows through the first space side filter (301 a, 302 a), theadsorption element (81, 82), and the second space side filter (301 b,302 b) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82) to adsorbmoisture in the air, and then, is supplied to the second space (312);and regeneration operation as the cleaning operation in which the airfrom the second space (312) flows through the second space side filter(301 b, 302 b), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the first spaceside filter (301 a, 302 a) in this order to regenerate the adsorptionelement (81, 82) by the air, and then, is discharged to the first space(311) are performed selectively.

In the air conditioner of the third invention, the filter is provided oneach side of the adsorption element (81, 82), thereby effectivelypreventing performance degradation of the adsorption element (81, 82).In the adsorption operation, dust and the like are deposited on thefirst space side filter (301 a, 302 a), while dust on the second spaceside filter (301 b, 302 b) is removed automatically to clean the secondspace side filter (301 b, 302 b). On the other hand, in the regenerationoperation, dust and the like are deposited on the second space sidefilter (301 b, 302 b), while dust on the first space side filter (301 a,302 a) is removed automatically to clean the first space side filter(301 a, 302 a).

The air conditioner of the fourth invention is directed to the second orthird invention, wherein the first space serves as an outdoor space(311), while the second space serves as an indoor space (312), and theadsorption operation dehumidifies the indoor space (312) by.

In the air conditioner of the fourth invention, dehumidification isperformed for the indoor space (312).

The air conditioner of the fifth invention is directed to the firstinvention, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), and regeneration operation as the normaloperation in which the air from the first space (311) flows through thefilter (301, 302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order toregenerate the adsorption element (81, 82) by the air, and then, issupplied to the second space (312); and adsorption operation as thecleaning operation in which the air from the second space (312) flowsthrough the adsorption element (81, 82) and the filter (301, 302) inthis order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisturein the air, and then is discharged to the first space (311) areperformed selectively.

In the air conditioner of the fifth invention, the air from the firstspace (311) passes through the filter (301, 302) and the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in this order during the regeneration operation. Thisair is cleaned by the filter (301, 302), regenerates the adsorptionelement (81, 82), and then, is supplied to the second space (312).During this treatment, dust and the like in the air is captured by anddeposited on the filter (301, 302). On the other hand, during theadsorption operation, the air from the second space (312) passes throughthe adsorption element (81, 82) and the filter (301, 302) in this order.This air is dehumidified by the adsorption element (81, 82), removesdust and the like from the filter (301, 302), and then, is discharged tothe first space (311). Namely, dust and the like deposited on the filter(301, 302) in the regeneration operation are removed automatically toclean the filter (301, 302) in the adsorption operation.

The air conditioner of the sixth invention is directed to the firstinvention, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), a first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) as thefilter is provided on the first space (311) side of the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), a second space side filter(301 b, 302 b) is provided on the second space (312) side of theadsorption element (81, 82) in the air paths (56 to 56), andregeneration operation as the normal operation in which the air from thefirst space (311) flows through the first space side filter (301 b, 302b), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the second space side filter(301 a, 302 a) in this order to regenerate the adsorption element (81,82) by the air, and then, is supplied to the second space (312); andadsorption operation as the cleaning operation in which the air from thesecond space (312) flows through the second space side filter (301 a,302 a), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the first space side filter(301 b, 302 b) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82) toadsorb moisture in the air, and then, is discharged to the first space(311) are performed selectively.

In the air conditioner of the sixth invention, the filter is provided oneach side of the adsorption element (81, 82), thereby effectivelypreventing quality degradation of the adsorption element (81, 82). Inthe regeneration operation, dust and the like are deposited on the firstspace side filter (301 a, 302 a), while dust on the second space sidefilter (301 b, 302 b) is removed automatically to clean the second spaceside filter (301 b, 302 b). On the other hand, in the adsorptionoperation, dust and the like are deposited on the second space sidefilter (301 b, 302 b), while the dust on the first space side filter(301 a, 302 a) is removed automatically to clean the first space sidefilter (301 a, 302 a).

The air conditioner of the seventh invention is directed to the fifth orsixth invention, wherein the first space serves as an outdoor space(311), while the second space serves as an indoor space (312), and theregeneration operation humidifies the indoor space (312).

In the air conditioner of the seventh invention, humidification isperformed for the indoor space (312).

The air conditioner of the eighth invention is directed to the firstinvention, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), and first adsorption operation as the normaloperation in which the air from the first space (311) flows through thefilter (301, 302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order toallow the adsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisture in the air, andthen, is supplied to the second space (312); first regenerationoperation as the cleaning operation in which the air from the secondspace (312) flows through the adsorption element (81, 82) and the filter(301, 302) in this order to regenerate the adsorption element (81, 82)by the air, and then is discharged to the first space (311); secondadsorption operation as the cleaning operation in which the air from thesecond space (312) flows through the adsorption element (81, 82) and thefilter (301, 302) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82)to adsorb moisture in the air, and then is discharged to the first space(311); and second regeneration operation as the normal operation inwhich the air from the first space (311) flows through the filter (301,302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order to regenerate theadsorption element (81, 82) by the air, and then, is supplied to thesecond space (312) are performed selectively.

In the air conditioner of the eighth invention, during the firstadsorption operation, the air from the first space (311) passes throughthe filter (301, 302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order.This air is cleaned by the filter (301, 302), is dehumidified by theadsorption element (81, 82), and then, is supplied to the second space(312). During the first regeneration operation, the air from the secondspace (312) passes through the adsorption element (81, 82) and thefilter (301, 302) in this order. This air regenerates the adsorptionelement (81, 82), removes dust and the like on the filter (301, 302),and then, is discharge to the first space (311). In this way, dust andthe like deposited on the filter (301, 302) in the first adsorptionoperation are removed automatically to clean the filter (301, 302) inthe first regeneration operation.

Also, in the air conditioner in this invention, during the secondregeneration operation, the air from the first space (311) passesthrough the filter (301, 302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) inthis order. This air is cleaned by the filter (301, 302), regeneratesthe adsorption element (81, 82), and then, is supplied to the secondspace (312).

During the second adsorption operation, the air from the second space(312) passes through the adsorption element (81, 82) and the filter(301, 302) in this order. This air is dehumidified by the adsorptionelement (81, 82), removes dust and the like from the filter (301, 302),and then, is discharged to the first space (311). In this way, dust andthe like deposited on the filter (301, 302) in the second regenerationoperation are removed automatically to clean the filter (301, 302) inthe second adsorption operation.

The air conditioner of the ninth invention is directed to the firstinvention, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), a first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) as thefilter is provided on the first space (311) side of the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), a second space side filter(301 b, 302 b) is provided on the second space (312) side of theadsorption element (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), and firstadsorption operation as the normal operation in which the air from thefirst space (311) flows through the first space side filter (301 a, 302a), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the second space side filter(301 b, 302 b) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82) toadsorb moisture in the air, and then, is supplied to the second space(312); first regeneration operation as the cleaning operation, in whichthe air from the second space (312) flows through the second space sidefilter (301 b, 302 b), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the firstspace side filter (301 a, 302 a) in this order to regenerate theadsorption element (81, 82) by the air, and then is supplied to thefirst space (311); second adsorption operation as the cleaning operationin which the air from the second space (312) flows through the secondspace side filter (301 b, 302 b), the adsorption element (81, 82), andthe first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) in this order to allow theadsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisture in the air, and then issupplied to the first space (311); and second regeneration operation asthe normal operation in which the air from the first space (311) flowsthrough the first space side filter (301 a, 302 a), the adsorptionelement (81, 82), and the second space side filter (301 b, 302 b) inthis order to regenerate the adsorption element (81, 82) by the air, andthen, is supplied to the second space (312) are performed selectively.

In the air conditioner of the ninth invention, the filter is provided oneach side of the adsorption element (81, 82), thereby effectivelypreventing performance degradation of the adsorption element (81, 82).In the first adsorption operation and the second regeneration operation,dust and the like are deposited on the first space side filter (301 a,302 a), while dust and the like on the second space side filter (301 b,302 b) are removed automatically to clean the second space side filter(301 b, 302 b). On the other hand, in the first regeneration operationand the second adsorption operation, dust and the like are deposited onthe second space side filter (301 b, 302 b), while dust on the firstspace side filter (301 a, 302 a) is removed automatically to clean thefirst space side filter (301 a, 302 a).

The air conditioner of the tenth invention is directed to the eight orninth invention, wherein the first space serves as an outdoor space(311), while the second space serves as an indoor space (312), and thefirst adsorption operation dehumidifies the indoor space (312), whilethe second regeneration operation humidifies the indoor space (312).

In the air conditioner of the tenth invention, dehumidification andhumidification are performed for the indoor space (312).

The air conditioner of the eleventh invention is directed to any one ofthe second, third, fifth, sixth, eighth, and ninth invention, whereinthe first adsorption element (81) and the first filter (301) areprovided in the first air path (53, 54), while the second adsorptionelement (82) and the second filter (302) are provided in the second airpath (55, 56), and first operation in which the adsorption operation forthe first adsorption element (81) and the regeneration operation for thesecond adsorption element (82) are performed simultaneously; and secondoperation in which the regeneration operation for the first adsorptionelement (81) and the adsorption operation for the second adsorptionelement (82) are performed simultaneously are performed alternately.

In the air conditioner of the eleventh invention, the first operationand the second operation are performed alternately, which is generallycalled batch operation. Whereby, dehumidification or humidification canbe performed continuously.

The air conditioner of the twelfth invention is directed to the firstinvention, wherein air flows from the first space (311) to the secondspace (312) in the first air path (251), while air flows from the secondspace (312) to the first space (311) in the second air path (252), arotating rotary adsorption element (253) that has an adsorbent and isarranged so as to cross the first air path (251) and the second air path(252) is provided as the air conditioning element, a rotary filter (254)for rotating integrally with the rotary adsorption element (253) whichis arranged on the first space (311) side of the rotary adsorptionelement (253) so as to cross the first air path (251) and the second airpath (252) is provided as the filter, and operation in which air flowsthrough the rotary filter (254) and the rotary adsorption element (253)in this order in the first air path (251) to allow the rotary adsorptionelement (253) to adsorb moisture in the air, and then, is supplied tothe second space (312) is performed as the normal operation, andsimultaneously therewith, operation, in which air flows through therotary adsorption element (253) and the rotary filter (254) in thisorder in the second air path (252) to regenerate the rotary adsorptionelement (253) by the air, and then, is discharged to the first space(311), is performed as the cleaning operation.

In the air conditioner of the twelfth invention, the air from the firstspace (311) flows in the first air path (251) through the rotary filter(254) and the rotary adsorption element (253) in this order in the firstair path (251) to allow the rotary filter to capture dust and the likein the air and to allow the rotary adsorption element (253) to adsorbmoisture in the air. On the other hand, in the second air path (312),the air from the second space (312) flows through the rotary adsorptionelement (253) and the rotary filter (254) in this order to performregeneration of the rotary adsorption element (253) and to performautomatic removal of dust from the rotary filter (254) for cleaning therotary filter (254).

The air conditioner of the thirteenth invention is directed to the firstinvention, wherein air flows from the second space (312) to the firstspace (311) in the first air path (251), while air flows from the firstspace (311) to the second space (312) in the second air path (252), arotating rotary adsorption element (253) that has an adsorbent and isarranged so as to cross the first air path (251) and the second air path(252) is provided as the air conditioning element, a rotary filter (254)for rotating integrally with the rotary adsorption element (253) whichis arranged on the first space (311) side of the rotary adsorptionelement (253) so as to cross the first air path (251) and the second airpath (252) is provided as the filter, and operation in which air flowsthrough the rotary adsorption element (253) and the rotary filter (254)in this order in the first air path (251) to allow the rotary adsorptionelement (253) to adsorb moisture in the air, and then, is discharged tothe first space (311), is performed as the normal operation, andsimultaneously therewith, operation in which air flows through therotary filter (254) and the rotary adsorption element (253) in thisorder to in the second air path (252) regenerate the rotary adsorptionelement (253) by the air, and then, is supplied to the second space(312) is performed as the cleaning operation.

In the air conditioner of the thirteenth invention, the air from thefirst space (311) flows in the second air path (252) through the rotaryfilter (254) and the rotary adsorption element (253) in this order toallow the rotary filter (254) to capture dust and the like in the airand to allow the rotary adsorption element (253) to be regenerated. Onthe other hand, in the first air path (251), the air from the secondspace (312) flows through the rotary adsorption element (253) and therotary filter (254) in this order to perform adsorption by the rotaryadsorption element (253) and to perform automatic removal of dust fromthe rotary filter (254) for cleaning the rotary filter (254).

The air conditioner of the fourteenth invention is directed to thetwelfth or thirteenth invention, wherein the first space serves as anoutdoor space (311), while the second space serves as an indoor space(312).

In the air conditioner of the fourteenth invention, dehumidification orhumidification is performed for the indoor space (312) continuously.

The air conditioner of the fifteenth invention is directed to the firstinvention, wherein air flows from the second space (312) to the firstspace (311) in the first air path (361), while air flows from the firstspace (311) to the second space (312) in the second air path, and atotal heat exchanger (363) for exchanging heat and moisture between theair flowing in the first air path (251) and the air flowing in thesecond air path (252) is provided as the air conditioning element.

In the air conditioner of the fifteenth invention, the total heatexchanger (363) is provided as the air condoning element. The airflowing in the first air path (251) and the air flowing in the secondair path (252) are introduced to the total heat exchanger (363). The airflowing in the first air path (251) is cleaned when passing through thefilter (366), and then, flows into the total heat exchanger (363). Theheat exchanger (363) performs exchange between heat and moisture for thetwo kinds of introduced airs. Specifically, in the total heat exchanger(363), both sensible heat and latent heat are exchanged between the airfrom the second space (312) toward the first space (311) and the airfrom the first space (311) toward the second space (312). The air takenin from the second space (312) and flowing into the first air path (251)is adjusted in temperature and humidity thereof in the total heatexchanger (363), and then, is supplied to the first space (311).

Effects—

According to the present invention, the filter (301, 302, . . . )captures dust and the like in the air in the normal operation, while thedust and the like adhered to the filter (301, 302, . . . ) are removedby the flowing air in the cleaning operation. In other words, the filter(301, 302, . . . ) can be cleaned by performing the cleaning operationwith no removal of the filter (301, 302, . . . ) from the airconditioner. Accordingly, filter detachment accompanied by cleaning workbecomes unnecessary, thereby reducing the steps of maintenance work forthe air conditioner. As a result, labor required for the maintenance ofthe air conditioner can be mitigated and the maintenance cost can bereduced.

Further, according to the present invention, the cleaning operationkeeps the filter (301, 302, . . . ) clean effortlessly and preventslowering of an air flow rate, which is due to clogging of the filter(301, 302, . . . ). Moreover, the filter (301, 302, . . . ) can capturedust an the like in air surely, performance degradation of the airconditioning element (81, 82, . . . ) caused due to deposition of dustand the like is suppressed, and the lifetime of the air conditioningelement (81, 82, . . . ) can be extended.

According to the second and third inventions, in the air conditionerincluding the adsorption element (81, 82) as the air conditioningelement and capable of dehumidification of air supplied to the secondspace (312), performance degradation caused due to clogging of thefilter (301, 302) can be prevented, a burden on the maintenance can bemitigated, and the maintenance cost can be reduced.

According to the fifth and sixth inventions, in the air conditionerincluding the adsorption element (81, 82) as the air conditioningelement and capable of humidification of air supplied to the secondspace (312), performance degradation caused due to clogging of thefilter (301, 302) can be prevented, a burden on the maintenance can bemitigated, and the maintenance cost can be reduced.

According to the eighth and ninth inventions, in the air conditionerincluding the adsorption element (81, 82) as the air conditioningelement and capable of dehumidification and humidification of airsupplied to the second space (312), performance degradation caused dueto clogging of the filter (301, 302) can be prevented, a burden on themaintenance can be mitigated, and the maintenance cost can be reduced.

Especially, in the third, sixth, and ninth inventions, the filter (301a, 301 b, . . . ) is provided on each side of the adsorption element(81, 82), thereby effectively preventing performance degradation of theadsorption element (81, 82). Moreover, further lifetime extension of theadsorption element (81, 82) is enabled.

According to the eleventh invention, alternate performance is carriedout between the first operation of the adsorption operation for thefirst adsorption element (81) and the regeneration operation for thesecond adsorption element (82); and the second operation of theregeneration operation for the first adsorption element (81) and theadsorption operation for the second adsorption element (82) as batchoperation, so that dehumidification and humidification can be performedcontinuously.

According to the twelfth and thirteenth inventions, the rotaryadsorption element (253) and the rotary filter (254) are arranged overthe first air path (251) and the second air path (252) and are rotated.Therefore, it becomes possible to perform the adsorption operation in apart of the rotary adsorption element (253) while performing theregeneration operation in the other part thereof, thereby enablingcontinuous performance of adsorption and regeneration. Further, therotary filter (254) captures dust in the first air path (251) whilecleaning the rotary filter (254) in the second air path (252), therebyenabling continuous performance of dust capture and cleaning of therotary filter (254).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidity control device according tothe first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing first operation of thehumidity control device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an adsorption element.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing second operation of thehumidity control device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing first operationof a humidity control device according to the first modified example ofthe first embodiment.

FIG. 5B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the first modifiedexample of the first embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing first operationof a humidity control device according to the second modified example ofthe first embodiment.

FIG. 6B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the secondmodified example of the first embodiment.

FIG. 7A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing first operationof a humidity control device according to the third modified example ofthe first embodiment.

FIG. 7B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the third modifiedexample of the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a conceptual view of the main portion of a humidity controldevice according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing first operation in ahumidity control device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing second operation in thehumidity control device according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 11A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing firstoperation of a humidity control device according to the first modifiedexample of the second embodiment.

FIG. 11B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the first modifiedexample of the second embodiment.

FIG. 12A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing firstoperation of a humidity control device according to the second modifiedexample of the second embodiment.

FIG. 12B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the secondmodified example of the second embodiment.

FIG. 13A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing firstoperation of a humidity control device according to the third modifiedexample of the second embodiment.

FIG. 13B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the third modifiedexample of the second embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual view of the main portion of a humidity controldevice according to the fourth modified example of the secondembodiment.

FIG. 15A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing firstoperation in dehumidification of a humidity control device according tothe third embodiment.

FIG. 15B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation in dehumidification of the humidity control device accordingto the third embodiment.

FIG. 15C is a conceptual view of the main portion showing firstoperation in humidification of the humidity control device according tothe third embodiment.

FIG. 15D is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation in humidification of the humidity control device according tothe third embodiment.

FIG. 16A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing firstoperation of a humidity control device according to the first modifiedexample of the third embodiment.

FIG. 16B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the first modifiedexample of the third embodiment.

FIG. 17A is a conceptual view of the main portion showing firstoperation of a humidity control device according to the second modifiedexample of the third embodiment.

FIG. 17B is a conceptual view of the main portion showing secondoperation of the humidity control device according to the secondmodified example of the third embodiment.

FIG. 18A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 18B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 19A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 19B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 20A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 20B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 21A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 21B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 22A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 22B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 23A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 23B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 24A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 24B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 25A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 25B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 26A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 26B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 27A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof a ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 27B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 28A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 28B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationof the ventilation system according to Modified Example 1.

FIG. 29A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationin dehumidification of a ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 29B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationin dehumidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 30A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationin humidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 30B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationin humidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 31A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationin dehumidification of a ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 31B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationin dehumidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 32A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationin humidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 32B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationin humidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 33A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationin dehumidification of a ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 33B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationin dehumidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 34A is a view showing an air flowing state during first operationin humidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 34B is a view showing an air flowing state during second operationin humidification of the ventilation system according to ModifiedExample 2.

FIG. 35A is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during normal operation of a ventilation system according toModified Example 3.

FIG. 35B is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during cleaning operation of the ventilation system according toModified Example 3.

FIG. 35C is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during cleaning operation of the ventilation system according toModified Example 3.

FIG. 36 is a schematic perspective view of a total heat exchanger.

FIG. 37A is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during normal operation of a ventilation system according toModified Example 3.

FIG. 37B is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during cleaning operation of the ventilation system according toModified Example 3.

FIG. 38A is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during normal operation of a heat exchanger according to ModifiedExample 3.

FIG. 38B is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during cleaning operation of the heat exchanger according toModified Example 3.

FIG. 38C is a schematic constitutional view showing a constitution and astate during cleaning operation of the heat exchanger according toModified Example 3.

FIG. 39 is a schematic constitutional view of a conventional ventilationsystem.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detailwith reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment

A humidity control device of the first embodiment is constituted by anair conditioner according to the present invention, and performs indoordehumidification and ventilation. As shown in FIG. 1, the humiditycontrol device (1) according the first embodiment includes: a casing(10) in a rather flat, rectangular solid shape; an air inlet (13) thatsucks outdoor air; an air outlet (14) that blows out air indoors; an airinlet (15) that sucks room air; and an air outlet (16) that blows outair outdoors.

As shown in FIG. 2, a first adsorption element (81) and a secondadsorption element (82) are accommodated in the casing (10). The firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) composeair conditioning elements, respectively. Further, a regeneration heatexchanger (102), a first heat exchanger (103), and a second heatexchanger (104) are provided in the casing (10). These heat exchangers(102, 103, 104) are provided in a refrigeration circuit (not shown) sothat refrigerant flows therein.

As shown in FIG. 3, each adsorption element (81, 82) is composed ofalternately stuck layers of flat plate members (83) and corrugated platemembers (84). The flat plate members (83) are formed in a rectangularshape having a length L₁ of the long side 2.5 times a length L₂ of theshort side. In short, each flat plate member (83) has a size ofL₁/L₂=2.5. Wherein, the numeric values indicated herein are mereexamples and each side length is not limited thereto particularly. Thecorrugated plate members (84) are stuck so as to shift by 90 degrees tothe respective edge lines of adjacent corrugated plate members (84).Each adsorption element (81, 82) is formed in a rectangular solid shapeor a square pole as a whole.

In each adsorption element (81, 82), humidity control side paths (85)and cooling side paths (86) are alternately defined and formed in thedirection of the stuck layers of the flat plate members (83) and thecorrugated plate members (84), with the flat plate members (83)interposed. In each adsorption element (81, 82), the humidity controlside paths (85) open to the side face on the long side of the flat platemembers (83), while the cooling side paths (86) open to the side face onthe short side of the flat plate members (83). Further, the end faces inthe front and back of each adsorption element (81, 82) in the drawingare closed faces open to neither the humidity control side paths (85)nor the cooling side paths (86).

In each adsorption elements (81, 82), an adsorbent for adsorbingmoisture in air, that is, water vapor is applied on the surfaces of theflat plate member (83) facing the humidity control side paths (85) andthe surfaces of the corrugated plate members (84) in the humiditycontrol side paths (85). Silica gel, zeolite, ion exchange resin and thelike may be listed as the adsorbent of this kind.

In the casing (10), as shown in FIG. 2, an outdoor side panel (11) andan indoor side panel (12) are provided at the front end and back end ofthe casing (10). The air inlet (13) is formed left-hand of the outdoorside panel (11), while the air outlet (16) is formed right-hand of theoutdoor side panel (11). The air outlet (14) is formed left-hand of theindoor side panel (12), while the air inlet (15) is formed right-hand ofthe indoor side panel (12).

There are provided inside of the casing (10) a first partition plate(20), a second partition plate (201), a third partition plate (221), anda fourth partition plate (30) in this order from the front to the back.The inner space of the casing (10) is partitioned in the longitudinaldirection by these partition plates (20, 201, 221, 30).

The space between the outdoor side panel (11) and the first partitionplate (20) is divided into an upper space (41) and a lower space (42).The upper space (41) communicates with an outdoor space (311) throughthe air outlet (16). The lower space (42) communicates with the outdoorspace (311) through the air inlet (13).

On the right hand of the upper space (41), an exhaust fan (96) isprovided. Also, the second heat exchanger (104) is provided in the upperspace (41). The second heat exchanger (104) is generally called a finnedtube heat exchanger of cross fin type, and heats or cools air flowing inthe upper space (41) toward the exhaust fan (96). In short, the secondheat exchanger (104) is provided for heating or cooling air to bedischarged outdoors.

The space between the first partition plate (20) and the secondpartition plate (201) is divided into a left end space (202), a leftcenter space (203), a right center space (204), and a right end space(205) from the left side to the right side in this order.

In the first partition plate (20), there are formed a right side opening(21), a left side opening (22), an upper right opening (23), a lowerright opening (24), an upper left opening (25), and a lower left opening(26). Each opening (21 to 26) includes an opening/closing shuttercapable of opening and closing.

The upper space (41) communicates with the left center space (203)through the upper left opening (25). The upper space (41) communicateswith the right center space (204) through the upper right opening (23).The lower space (42) communicates with the left end space (202) throughthe left side opening (22). The lower space (42) communicates with theleft center space (203) through the lower left opening (26). The lowerspace (42) communicates with the right center space (204) through thelower right opening (24). The lower space (42) communicates with theright end space (205) through the right side opening (21).

In the second partition plate (201), there are also formed a right sideopening (207), a left side opening (206), an upper right opening (210),a lower right opening (211), an upper left opening (208), and a lowerleft opening (209). Each of the upper left opening (208), the lower leftopening (209), the upper right opening (210), and the lower rightopening (211) includes an opening/closing shutter capable of opening andclosing.

The first adsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82)are provided between the second partition plate (201) and the thirdpartition plate (221). These adsorption elements (81, 82) are arrangedright and left with a predetermined space left. Specifically, the firstadsorption element (81) is arranged right-handed and the secondadsorption element (82) is arranged left-handed.

The first adsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82)are arranged so that the directions of stuck layers of the flat platemembers (83) and the corrugated plate members (84) thereof agree withthe longitudinal direction of the casing (10) (the direction from thefront toward the back in FIG. 2), and the directions of stuck layers ofthe flat plate members (83) and the like thereof are parallel to eachother. Further, each adsorption element (81, 82) is arranged so that theright and left faces thereof are in parallel to the side plate of thecasing (10), the upper and lower faces thereof are in parallel to theceiling and the bottom plates of the casing (10), and the front and backend faces thereof are in parallel to the outdoor side panel (11) and theindoor side panel (12).

A first filter (301) is provided on the lower face of first adsorptionelement (81). A second filter (302) is provided on the lower face of thesecond adsorption element (82).

Further, the cooling side paths (86) open at the right and left sidefaces of each adsorption element (81, 82) in the casing (10). Namely,one of the side face open to the cooling side paths (86) in the firstadsorption element (81) and one of the side face open to the coolingside paths (86) in the second adsorption element (82) face each other.

The space between the second partition plate (201) and the thirdpartition plate (221) is divided into a right side passage (51), a leftside passage (52), an upper right passage (53), a lower right passage(54), an upper left passage (55), a lower left passage (56), and acenter passage (57).

The right side passage (51) is formed on the right side of the firstadsorption element (81) so as to communicate with the cooling side paths(86) of the first adsorption element (81). The left side passage (52) isformed on the left side of the second adsorption element (82) so as tocommunicate with the cooling side paths (86) of the second adsorptionelement (82).

The upper right passage (53) is formed on the upper side of the firstadsorption element (81) so as to communicate with the humidity controlside paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81). The lower rightpassage (54) is formed on the lower side of the first adsorption element(81) (strictly, the lower side of the first filter (301)) so as tocommunicate with the humidity control paths (85) of the first adsorptionelement (81). The upper left passage (55) is formed on the upper side ofthe second adsorption element (82) so as to communicate with thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82).The lower left passage (56) is formed on the lower side of the secondadsorption element (82) (strictly, the lower side of the second filter(302)) so as to communicate with the humidity control side paths (85) ofthe second adsorption element (82).

The center passage (57) is formed between the first adsorption element(81) and the second adsorption element (85) so as to communicate withthe cooling side paths (86) of both the adsorption elements (81, 82).The center passage (57) is in an octagonal shape in passage sectionappearing in FIG. 2.

Referring to the second partition plate (201), the left end space (202)communicates with the left side passage (52) through the left sideopening (206). The right end space (205) communicates with the rightside passage (51) through the right side opening (207). The left centerspace (203) communicates with the upper left passage (55) through theupper left opening (208). The left center space (203) communicates withthe lower left passage (56) through the lower left opening (209). Theright center space (204) communicates with the upper right passage (53)through the upper right opening (210). The right center space (204)communicates with the lower right passage (54) through the lower rightopening (211).

The regeneration heat exchanger (102) is generally called a finned tubeheat exchanger of cross fin type, and is arranged so as to heat airflowing in the center passage (57). The regeneration heat exchanger(102) is arranged in the center passage (57). Specifically, theregeneration heat exchanger (102) is arranged between the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) arrangedright and left. Further, the regeneration heat exchanger (102) standssubstantially perpendicularly to partition the center passage (57) rightand left.

A shutter capable of opening and closing for separating the right sideportion of the regeneration heat exchanger (102) in the center passage(57) from the upper right passage (53) is provided between the firstadsorption element (81) and the regeneration heat exchanger (102). Onthe other hand, between the second adsorption element (82) and theregeneration heat exchanger (102), a shutter capable of opening andclosing for separating the left side portion of the regeneration heatexchanger (102) in the center passage (57) from the upper left passage(55) is provided.

The third partition plate (221) has the same structure as that of thesecond partition plate (201). Namely, there are formed in the thirdpartition plate (221) a right side opening (222), a left side opening(223), an upper right opening (224), a lower right opening (225), anupper left opening (226), and a lower left opening (227). The each ofthe upper left opening (226), the lower left opening (227), the upperright opening (224), and the lower right opening (225) includes anopening/closing shutter capable of opening and closing.

The space between the third partition plate (221) and the fourthpartition plate (30) is divided into a left end space (228), a leftcenter space (229), a right center space (230), and a right end space(231) from the left side to the right side in this order.

The left side passage (52) communicates with the left end space (228)through the left side opening (223). The right side passage (51)communicates with the right end space (231) through the right sideopening (222). The upper left passage (55) communicates with the leftcenter space (229) through the upper left opening (226). The lower leftpassage (56) communicates with the left center space (229) through thelower left opening (227). The upper right passage (53) communicates withthe right center space (230) through the upper right opening (224). Thelower right passage (54) communicates with the right center space (230)through the lower right opening (225).

The space between the fourth partition plate (30) and the indoor sidepanel (12) is divided into an upper space (46) and a lower space (47).The upper space (46) communicates with the indoor space (312) throughthe air outlet (14). The lower space (47) communicates with the indoorspace (312) through the air inlet (15).

The fourth partition plate (30) has the same structure as that of thefirst partition plate (20). Namely, there are formed in the fourthpartition plate (30) a right side opening (31), a left side opening (32)an upper right opening (33), a lower right opening (34), an upper leftopening (35), and a lower left opening (36). Each opening (31 to 36)includes an opening/closing shutter capable of opening and closing.

The left end space (228) communicates with the lower space (47) throughthe left side opening (32). The left center space (229) communicateswith the lower space (47) through the lower left opening (36). The rightcenter space (230) communicates with the lower space (47) through thelower right opening (34). The right end space (231) communicates withthe lower space (47) through the right side opening (31). The leftcenter space (229) communicates with the upper space (46) through theupper left opening (35). The right center space (230) communicates withthe upper space (46) through the upper right opening (33).

An air supply fan (95) is provided left-hand of the upper space (46).Also, the first heat exchanger (103) is provided in the upper space(46). The first heat exchanger (103) is generally called a finned tubeheat exchanger of cross fin type for heating or cooling air flowing inthe upper space (46) toward the air supply fan (95). In short, the firstheat exchanger (103) is provided for heating or cooling air to besupplied indoors.

Driving Operation of Humidity Control Device—

The driving operation of the humidity control device (1) will bedescribed next. The humidity control device (1) performs alternaterepetition of first operation (see FIG. 2) for adsorption of the firstadsorption element (81) and regeneration of the second adsorptionelement (82) and second operation (see FIG. 4) for adsorption of thesecond adsorption element (82) and the regeneration of the firstadsorption element (81). In short, the humidity control system (1)performs a generally-called batch operation. The alternate repetition ofthe first operation and the second operation of the humidity controldevice (1) attains continuous indoor dehumidification.

Referring to FIG. 2, the first operation will be described first. Asdescribed above, the adsorption operation for the first adsorptionelement (81) and the regeneration operation for the second adsorptionelement (82) are performed simultaneously in the first operation. Theadsorption operation for the first adsorption element (81) is normaloperation, and the first filter (301) performs air cleaning during theadsorption operation. On the other hand, the regeneration operation forthe second adsorption element (82) is cleaning operation, and dust isremoved from the second filter (302) during the regeneration operation.

In the first partition plate (20), the lower right opening (24) and theupper left opening (25) are opened, while the right side opening (21),the upper right opening (23), the lower left opening (26), and the leftside opening (22) are closed. In the second partition plate (201), thelower right opening (211) and the lower left opening (209) are opened,while the upper right opening (210) and the upper left opening (208) areclosed. Wherein, the right side opening (207) and the left side opening(206) are opened. In the third partition plate (221), the upper rightopening (224) is opened, while the lower right opening (225), the upperleft opening (226), and the lower left opening (227) are closed.Wherein, the right side opening (222) and the left side opening (223)are opened. In the fourth partition plate (30), the upper right opening(33) and the right side opening (31) are opened, while the lower rightopening (34), the upper left opening (35), the lower left opening (36),and the left side opening (32) are closed.

Outdoor air (hereinafter referred to as first air) sucked from the airinlet (13) passes through the lower space (42), the lower right opening(24) of the first partition plate (20), the right center space (204),the lower right opening (211) of the second partition plate (201) inthis order, to be introduced into the lower right passage (54).

The first air introduced in the lower right passage (54) passes upwardthrough the first filter (301) and the humidity control side paths (85)of the second adsorption element (81), to flow into the upper rightpassage (53). At this time, dust and the like included in the first airare captured by the first filter (301) to be removed from the first air.Also, moisture included in the first air is adsorbed by the firstadsorption element (81) for dehumidification of the first air.

The first air flowing in the upper right passage (53) passes through theupper right opening (224) of the third partition plate (221), the rightcenter space (230), the upper right opening (33) of the fourth partitionplate (30), and the upper space (46) in this order to be cooled by thefirst heat exchanger (103) when passing through the upper space (46).Then, the first air is supplied indoors from the air outlet (14).

On the other hand, room air (hereinafter referred to as second air)sucked from the air inlet (15) passes through the lower space (47), theright side opening (31) of the fourth partition plate (30), the rightend space (231), and the right side opening (222) of the third partitionplate (221) in this order, to be introduced into the right side passage(51).

The second air introduced in the right side passage (51) flows into thecooling side paths (86) of the first adsorption element (81). The secondair absorbs adsorption heat generated at adsorption of water vapor bythe adsorbent in the humidity control side paths (85) when passingthrough the cooling side paths (86). In other words, the second airflows through the cooling side paths (86) as a cooing fluid to cool thefirst adsorption element (81). The second air that has passed throughthe cooling side paths (86) passes through the regeneration heatexchanger (102) next. At this time, the second air is heated by the heatexchange for the refrigerant in the regeneration heat exchanger (102).Then, the second air flows through the center passage (57) into theupper left passage (55).

The second air heated by the first adsorption element (81) and theregeneration heat exchanger (102) is introduced into the humiditycontrol side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82). In thehumidity control side paths (85), the absorbent is heated by the secondair, so that water vapor is desorbed from the adsorbent. Namely, theregeneration of the second adsorption element (82) is performed.

Next, the second air including the water vapor passes through the secondfilter (302). At this time, the dust and the like adhered to the secondfilter (302) is detached from the second filter (302), and flows withthe second air. In other words, the second air removes the dust and thelike adhered to the second filter (302) for cleaning the second filter(302). Then, the second air including the dust and the like flows intothe lower left passage (56).

The second air flowing in the lower left passage (56) flows through thelower left opening (209) of the second partition plate (201), the leftcenter space (203), the upper left opening (25) of the first partitionplate (20), and the upper space (41), to be discharged outdoors from theair outlet (16). At this time, the dust and the like removed from thesecond filter (302) are also discharged outdoors together with thesecond air. During that time, the second heat exchanger (104) stops, sothat the second air is neither heated nor cooled when flowing throughthe upper space (41).

After the first operation continues for a predetermined period, thesecond operation as follows is performed. The second operation will bedescribed next with reference to FIG. 4.

In the second operation, which is the reverse of the first operation,the adsorption operation for the second adsorption element (82) and theregeneration operation for the first adsorption element (81) areperformed simultaneously. The adsorption operation for the firstadsorption element (81) is cleaning operation, and dust is removed fromthe first filter (301) during the adsorption operation. The regenerationoperation for the second adsorption element (82) is normal operation,and the second filter (302) performs air cleaning during theregeneration operation.

As shown in FIG. 4, in the first partition plate (20), the upper rightopening (23) and the lower left opening (26) are opened, while the rightside opening (21), the lower right opening (24), the upper left opening(25), and the left side opening (22) are closed. In the second partitionplate (201), the lower right opening (211) and the lower left opening(209) are opened, while the upper right opening (210) and the upper leftopening (208) are closed. Wherein, the right side opening (207) and theleft side opening (206) are opened. In the third partition plate (221),the upper left opening (226) is opened, while the lower left opening(227), the upper right opening (224), and the lower right opening (225)are closed. Wherein, the right side opening (222) and the left sideopening (223) are opened. In the fourth partition plate (30), the upperleft opening (35) and the left side opening (32) are opened, while thelower left opening (36), the upper right opening (33), the lower rightopening (34), and the right side opening (31) are closed.

Outdoor air (hereinafter referred to as first air) sucked from the airinlet (13) passes through the lower space (42), the lower left opening(26) of the first partition plate (20), the left center space (203), thelower left opening (209) of the second partition plate (201) in thisorder, to be introduced into the lower left passage (56).

The first air introduced in the lower left passage (56) passes upwardthrough the second filter (302) and the humidity control side paths (85)of the second adsorption element (82), to flow into the upper leftpassage (55). At this time, dust and the like included in the first airare captured by the second filter (302) to be removed from the firstair. Also, moisture included in the first air is adsorbed by the secondadsorption element (82) for dehumidification of the first air.

The first air flowing in the upper left passage (55) passes through theupper left opening (226) of the third partition plate (221), the leftcenter space (229), the upper left opening (35) of the fourth partitionplate (30), and the upper space (46) in this order to be cooled by thefirst heat exchanger (103) when passing through the upper space (46).Then, the first air is supplied indoors from the air outlet (14).

On the other hand, room air (hereinafter referred to as second air)sucked from the air inlet (15) passes through the lower space (47), theleft side opening (32) of the fourth partition plate (30), the left endspace (228), and the left side opening (223) of the third partitionplate (221) in this order, to be introduced into the left side passage(52).

The second air introduced in the left side passage (52) flows into thecooling side paths (86) of the second adsorption element (82). Thesecond air absorbs adsorption heat generated in the humidity controlside paths (85) when flowing through the cooling side paths (86). Inother words, the second air flows through the cooling side paths (86) asa cooing fluid to cool the second adsorption element (82). The secondair that has passed through the cooling side paths (86) passes throughthe regeneration heat exchanger (102) next. At this time, the second airis heated by the heat exchange for the refrigerant in the regenerationheat exchanger (102). Then, the second air flows through the centerpassage (57) into the upper right passage (53).

The second air heated by the second adsorption element (82) and theregeneration heat exchanger (102) is introduced into the humiditycontrol side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81). In thehumidity control side paths (85), the absorbent is heated by the secondair, so that water vapor is desorbed from the adsorbent. Namely, theregeneration of the first adsorption element (81) is performed.

Next, the second air including the water vapor passes through the firstfilter (301). At this time, the dust and the like adhered to the firstfilter (301) are detached from the first filter (301), and flows withthe second air, to be discharged. In other words, the second air removesthe dust and the like adhered to the first filter (301) for cleaning thefirst filter (301). Then, the second air including the dust and the likeflows into the left side passage (52).

The second air flowing in the left side passage (52) flows through thelower right opening (211) of the second partition plate (201), the rightcenter space (204), the upper right opening (23) of the first partitionplate (20), and the upper space (41) in this order, to be dischargedoutdoors from the air outlet (16). At this time, the dust and the likeremoved from the first filter (301) are also discharged outdoorstogether with the second air. During that time, the second heatexchanger (104) stops, so that the second air is neither heated norcooled when flowing through the upper space (41).

Effects in First Embodiment—

As described above, in the humidity control device (1), the air flowingdirection in the adsorption elements (81, 82) is reversed between theadsorption operation and the regeneration operation. In other words, theair flowing direction during the adsorption operation is opposite tothat during the regeneration operation.

Specifically, the air passing through the humidity control side paths(85) of the adsorption elements (81, 82) flows upward during theadsorption operation, while flowing downward during the regenerationoperation. As a result, the dust and the like included in the first airare removed by the filter (301, 302) during the adsorption operation,while the dust adhered to the filter (301, 302) is removed by the secondair, to be discharged together with the second air, during theregeneration operation. The humidity control device (1) performs thebatch operation so that the adsorption operation and the regenerationoperation are alternately performed in each adsorption element (81, 82).Consequently, capture and detachment of dust and the like are performedin each filter (301, 302) alternately, which means automatic cleaning ofthe filters (301, 302). Hence, less amount of dust and the like aredeposited on the filters (301, 302) for a long period of term.

Hence, lowering of the ventilation rate, which is due to clogging of thefilters (301, 302), can be prevented in the humidity control device (1).Further, performance degradation of the adsorption elements (81, 82) canbe prevented effectively, with a result of lifetime extension of theadsorption elements (81, 82).

Further, periodic cleaning work for the filters (301, 302) becomesunnecessary or can be reduced, with a result of mitigation of burden onthe maintenance. Thus, the maintenance cost can be reduced.

FIRST MODIFIED EXAMPLE

In the above embodiment, the regeneration heat exchanger (102) standsupright between the first adsorption element (81) and the secondadsorption element (82), but the layout of the regeneration heatexchanger (102) is not limited specifically. For example, as shown inFIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, the regeneration heat exchanger (102) may bearranged transversely so that the air flows vertically in the heatexchange.

SECOND MODIFIED EXAMPLE

The air heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102) is immediatelyintroduced into the humidity control side paths (85) of the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in the above embodiment. However, as shown in FIG. 6Aand FIG. 6B, the air heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102) maybe once introduced into the cooling side paths (86) of the adsorptionelement (81, 82), and then, be introduced into the humidity control sidepaths (85). With this arrangement, the adsorption element (81, 82) to beregenerated can be heated efficiently, thereby increasing theregeneration efficiency.

THIRD MODIFIED EXAMPLE

Each adsorption element (81, 82) in the above embodiment includes twokinds of paths of: the humidity control side paths (85); and the coolingside paths (86). However, adsorption elements (81, 82) each includingthe humidity control side paths (85) only may be employed, as shown inFIG. 7A and FIG. 7B.

FOURTH MODIFIED EXAMPLE

Two independent adsorption elements of: the first adsorption element(81); and the second adsorption element (82) are provided in the aboveembodiment. However, a single adsorption element may be provided in thepresent invention.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8, a single rotary adsorption element(253) composing the air conditioning element may be arranged over anadsorption path (251) and a regeneration path (252). In this modifiedembodiment, a rotary filter (254) that rotates integrally with therotary adsorption element (253) is provided on the outdoor side of therotary adsorption element (253). The regeneration heat exchanger (102)is provided on the indoor side of the rotary adsorption element (253) inthe regeneration path (252).

In the present modified example, outdoor air sucked in the adsorptionpath (251) is cleaned by the filter (254), and then, is dehumidified bythe rotary adsorption element (253). Subsequently, the cleaned anddehumidified air is supplied indoors. On the other hand, room air suckedin the regeneration path (252) is heated by the regeneration heatexchanger (102), and then, passes through the rotary adsorption element(253). At this time, the room air heats the rotary adsorption element(253) and absorbs moisture included in the rotary adsorption element(253). Whereby, the rotary adsorption element (253) is regenerated.Next, the air that has regenerated the rotary adsorption element (253)passes through the filter (254). At this time, dust and the like adheredto the filter (254) are removed from the filter (254) by theaforementioned air.

According to the present modified example, the adsorption andregeneration of the adsorption element can be performed continuouslywith no batch operation needed. Also, dust capture and cleaning for thefilter (254) can be performed continuously.

Second Embodiment

A humidity control device of the second embodiment is constituted by anair conditioner according to the present invention, and performs indoorhumidification and ventilation. As shown in FIG. 9, the first filter(301) and the second filter (302) are provided on the upper faces of thefirst adsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82),respectively, in the humidity control device (2) according the secondembodiment. The constitution of the humidity control device (2) is thesame as that of the humidity control device (1) in the first embodiment,other than the layout position of the filters (301, 302). Accordingly,the description of the construction of the humidity control device (2)is omitted.

The humidity control device (2) performs alternate repetition of firstoperation (see FIG. 9) for regeneration of the first adsorption element(81) and adsorption of the second adsorption element (82) and secondoperation (see FIG. 10) for adsorption of the first adsorption element(81) and the regeneration of the second adsorption element (82). Inshort, the humidity control device (2) also performs a generally-calledbatch operation, and the alternate repetition of the first operation andthe second operation attains continuous indoor humidification.

Referring to FIG. 9, the first operation will be described. In the firstoperation, regeneration operation for the adsorption element (81) andadsorption operation for the second adsorption element (82) areperformed simultaneously. The regeneration operation for the firstadsorption element (81) is normal operation, and the first filter (301)performs air cleaning during the regeneration operation. On the otherhand, the adsorption operation for the second adsorption element (82) iscleaning operation, and dust is removed from the second filter (302)during the adsorption operation.

In the first partition plate (20), the upper left opening (25) and theleft side opening (22) are opened, while the right side opening (21),the upper right opening (23), the lower right opening (24), and thelower left opening (26) are closed. In the second partition plate (201),the upper left opening (208) is opened, while the lower left opening(209), the upper right opening (210), and the lower right opening (211)are closed. Wherein, the left side opening (206) and the right sideopening (207) are opened. In the third partition plate (221), the lowerright opening (225) and the lower left opening (227) are opened, whilethe upper right opening (224) and the upper left opening (226) areclosed. Wherein, the right side opening (222) and the left side opening(223) are opened. In the fourth partition plate (30), the upper rightopening (33) and the lower left opening (36) are opened, while the rightside opening (31), the left side opening (32), the lower right opening(34), and the upper left opening (35) are closed.

Outdoor air (hereinafter referred to as second air) sucked from the airinlet (13) passes through the lower space (42), the left side opening(22) of the first partition plate (20), the left end space (202), andthe left side opening (206) of the second partition plate (201) in thisorder, to be introduced into the left side passage (52). The second airintroduced in the left side passage (52) passes through the cooling sidepaths (86) of the second adsorption element (82) and the regenerationheat exchanger (102) in the center passage (57) to be heated by thesecond adsorption element (82) and the regeneration heat exchanger(102).

The heated second air flows into the upper right passage (53), andpasses through the first filter (301) and the humidity control sidepaths (85) of the first adsorption element (81) in this order. At thistime, the second air is cleaned by the first filter (301) and ishumidified by the first adsorption element (81).

The humidified second air flows into the lower right passage (54),passes through the lower right opening (225) of the third partitionplate (221), the right center space (230), and the upper right opening(33) of the fourth partition plate (46) in this order, and then, flowsinto the upper space (46). The second air flown in the upper space (46)passes through the first heat exchanger (103), to be supplied indoorsfrom the air outlet (14). Wherein, the first heat exchanger (103) stopsso that the second air is neither heated nor cooled when flowing throughthe first heat exchanger (103).

On the other hand, room air (hereinafter referred to as first air)sucked from the air inlet (15) passes through the lower space (47), thelower left opening (36) of the fourth partition plate (30), the leftcenter space (229), and the lower left opening (227) of the thirdpartition plate (221) in this order, to flow into the lower left passage(56).

The first air flowing in the lower left passage (56) passes through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82)to be dehumidified by the second adsorption element (82). The first airthat has passed through the humidity control side paths (85) of thesecond adsorption element (82) passes through the second filter (302).At this time, dust and the like adhered to the second filter (302) areremoved by the first air. The first air including the dust and the likeflows through the upper left passage (55), the upper left opening (208)of the second partition plate (201), the left center space (203), theupper left opening (25) of the first partition plate (20), and the upperspace (41) in this order, to be discharged outdoors from the air outlet(16). Wherein, the first air is cooled when flowing through the secondheat exchanger (104) in the upper space (41).

After the aforementioned first operation continues for a predeterminedperiod, the second operation as follows is performed. The secondoperation will be described next with reference to FIG. 10.

In the second operation, which is the reverse of the first operation,the adsorption operation for the first adsorption element (81) and theregeneration operation for the second adsorption element (82) areperformed. The adsorption operation for the first adsorption element(81) is cleaning operation, and dust is removed from the first filter(301) during the adsorption operation. The regeneration operation forthe second adsorption element (82) is normal operation, and the secondfilter (302) performs air cleaning during the regeneration operation.

As shown in FIG. 10, the upper right opening (23) and the right sideopening (21) are opened, while the left side opening (22), the lowerright opening (24), the upper left opening (25), and the lower leftopening (26) are closed in the first partition plate (20). In the secondpartition plate (201), the upper right opening (210) is opened, whilethe upper left opening (208), the lower left opening (209), and thelower right opening (211) are closed. Wherein, the left side opening(206) and the right side opening (207) are opened. In the thirdpartition plate (221), the lower right opening (225) and the lower leftopening (227) are opened, while the upper right opening (224) and theupper left opening (226) are closed. Wherein, the right side opening(222) and the left side opening (223) are opened. In the fourthpartition plate (30), the lower right opening (34) and the upper leftopening (35) are opened, while the right side opening (31), the leftside opening (32), the upper right opening (33), and the lower leftopening (36) are closed.

Outdoor air (hereinafter referred to as second air) sucked from the airinlet (13) passes through the lower space (42), the right side opening(21) of the first partition plate (20), the right end space (205), andthe right side opening (207) of the second partition plate (201) in thisorder, to be introduced into the right side passage (51).

The second air introduced in the right side passage (51) passes throughthe cooling side paths (86) of the first adsorption element (81) and theregeneration heat exchanger (102) in the center passage (207) in thisorder to be heated by first adsorption element (81) and the regenerationheat exchanger (102).

The heated second air flows into the upper left passage (55), and passesthrough the second filter (302) and the humidity control side paths (85)of the second adsorption element (82) in this order. At this time thesecond air is cleaned by the second filter (302) and is humidified bythe second adsorption element (82).

The humidified second air flows into the lower left passage (56), passesthrough the lower left opening (227) of the third partition plate (221),the left center space (229), and the upper left opening (35) of thefourth partition plate (30) in this order, and then, flows into theupper space (46). The first air flowing in the upper space (46) passesthrough the first heat exchanger (103), to be supplied indoors from theair outlet (14). Wherein, the first heat exchanger (103) stops, likewisethat in the first operation, so that the second air is neither heatednor cooled by the first heat exchanger (103).

On the other hand, room air (hereinafter referred to as first air)sucked from the air inlet (15) passes through the lower space (47), thelower right opening (34) of the fourth partition plate (30), the rightcenter space (230), and the lower right opening (225) of the thirdpartition plate (221) in this order, to flow into the lower rightpassage (54).

The first air flown in the lower right passage (54) passes through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81) tobe dehumidified by the first adsorption element (81). The first air thathas passed through the humidity control side paths (85) of the firstadsorption element (81) passes through the first filter (301). At thistime, dust and the like adhered to the first filter (301) are removed bythe first air. Then, the first air including the dust and the like flowsthrough the upper right passage (53), the upper right opening (210) ofthe second partition plate (201), the right center space (204), theupper right opening (23) of the first partition plate (20), and theupper space (41) in this order, to be discharged outdoors from the airoutlet (16). Wherein, the second air is cooled when passing through thesecond heat exchanger (104) in the upper space (41).

Effects in Second Embodiment

As described above, also in the humidity control device (2), alternateperformance of capture and removal of dust and the like in each filter(301, 302) can be performed by alternate performance of the firstoperation and the second operation. Hence, less amount of dust isdeposited on the filters (301, 302) for a long period of term, andability lowering of the device, which is due to clogging of the filters(301, 302), can be prevented. Further, quality degradation of theadsorption elements (81, 82) can be prevented, with a result of lifetimeextension of the adsorption elements (81, 82). In addition, mitigationof burden on the maintenance and reduction of the maintenance cost canbe contemplate.

FIRST MODIFIED EXAMPLE

In the above embodiment, the regeneration heat exchanger (102) standsupright between the first adsorption element (81) and the secondadsorption element (82), but the layout of the regeneration heatexchanger (102) is not limited specifically. For example, as shown inFIG. 11A and FIG. 11B, the regeneration heat exchanger (102) may bearranged transversely so that the air flows vertically in the heatexchange.

SECOND MODIFIED EXAMPLE

The air heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102) is immediatelyintroduced into the humidity control side paths (85) of the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in the above embodiment. However, as shown in FIG. 12Aand FIG. 12B, the air heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102)may be once introduced into the cooling side paths (86) of theadsorption element (81, 82), and then, be introduced into the humiditycontrol side paths (85). With this arrangement, the adsorption element(81, 82) to be regenerated can be heated efficiently, thereby increasingthe regeneration efficiency.

THIRD MODIFIED EXAMPLE

Each adsorption element (81, 82) in the above embodiment includes thehumidity control side paths (85) and the cooling side paths (86).However, the adsorption elements (81, 82) each including the humiditycontrol side paths (85) only may be employed, as shown in FIG. 13A andFIG. 13B.

FOURTH MODIFIED EXAMPLE

Two independent adsorption elements, that is, the first adsorptionelement (81) and the second adsorption element (82) are provided in theabove embodiment. However, a single adsorption element may be providedin the present invention.

A single rotary adsorption element (253) composing the air conditioningelement may be arranged over an adsorption path (251) and a regenerationpath (252), as shown in FIG. 14. In this modified embodiment, a rotaryfilter (254) that rotates integrally with the rotary adsorption element(253) is provided on the outdoor side of the rotary adsorption element(253). The regeneration heat exchanger (102) is provided on the outdoorside of the rotary adsorption element (253) in the regeneration path(252).

In the present modified example, outdoor air sucked in the regenerationpath (252) is heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102), iscleaned by the filter (254), and then, is humidified by the rotaryadsorption element (253). Subsequently, the cleaned and humidified airis supplied indoors. On the other hand, room air sucked in theadsorption path (251) passes through the rotary adsorption element (253)to be dehumidified by the rotary adsorption element (253). Then, the airdehumidified by the rotary adsorption element (253) passes through thefilter (254). At this time, dust and the like adhered to the filter(254) are removed from the filter (254) by the aforementioned air.

Hence, according to the present modified example, the adsorption andregeneration of the adsorption element can be performed continuouslywith no batch operation needed. Also, dust capture and cleaning for thefilter (254) can be performed continuously.

Third Embodiment

A humidity control device of the third embodiment performs indoorventilation while selectively performing indoor dehumidification andhumidification. As shown in FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D, first filters (301 a,301 b) are provided on the lower and upper faces of the first adsorptionelement (81), respectively, and the second filters (302 a, 302 b) areprovided on the lower and upper faces of the second adsorption element(82), respectively, in the humidity control device according the thirdembodiment. The constitution thereof is the same as that in the humiditycontrol device (1) in the first embodiment, other than the each layoutposition of the filters (301 a, 301 b, 302 a, 302 b). Accordingly, thedescription of the other constitution is omitted.

The present humidity control device performs the same operation as thatof the humidity control device (1) of the first embodiment indehumidification operation. Namely, first operation shown in FIG. 15Aand second operation shown in FIG. 15B are performed alternately duringdehumidification operation.

On the other hand, the present humidity control device performs the sameoperation as that of the humidity control device (2) of the secondembodiment in humidification operation. Namely, first operation shown inFIG. 15C and second operation shown in FIG. 15D are performedalternately during humidification operation.

According to the present embodiment, the effects in both the first andsecond embodiments can be attained. In addition, in the presentembodiment, the filters (301 a, 301 b, 302 a, 302 b) are provided on theupper and lower faces of each adsorption element (81, 82), so that notonly dust and the like from the outside of the room but also dust andthe like from the room can be removed. Consequently, the performancedegradation of the adsorption elements (81, 82) can be furtherprevented, thereby further extending the lifetime of the adsorptionelements (81, 82).

FIRST MODIFIED EXAMPLE

Each adsorption element (81, 82) in the above embodiment includes thehumidity control side paths (85) and the cooling side paths (86).However, adsorption elements (81, 82) each including the humiditycontrol side paths (85) only may be employed, as shown in FIG. 16A andFIG. 16B.

SECOND MODIFIED EXAMPLE

As shown in FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B, it is possible to provide the firstfilter (301) on the lower face of one (81) of the adsorption elementswhile providing the second filter (302) on the upper face of the otheradsorption element (82).

Other Embodiments of the Invention

The embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the aboveembodiments, and the other embodiments are possible, of course.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 1

The air flowing states in the above embodiments are as shown in FIG. 18Aand FIG. 18B, but the air flowing states in the humidity control deviceaccording to the present invention is not limited to the above states.Other air flowing states will be described below by giving someexamples. Wherein, the filters are not illustrated in FIG. 18 to FIG.28, but the filters may be arranged on the upper face or the lower faceof the adsorption elements. Further, it is possible to arrange thefilters on both the upper and lower faces of the adsorption elements.

The example illustrated in FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) arearranged transversely, and the regeneration heat exchanger (102) isarranged transversely between the first adsorption element (81) and thesecond adsorption element (82).

In this example, the first operation and the second operation areperformed alternately. During the first operation in the presentexample, one of the airs flows upward through the humidity control sidepaths (85) of the first adsorption element (81) for adsorption, whilethe other air flows downward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the second adsorption element (82) for regeneration (see FIG.19A). During the second operation, one of the air flows downward throughthe first adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while the other airflows upward through the humidity control side paths (85) of the secondadsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG. 19B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) arearranged transversely, and the regeneration heat exchanger (102) isarranged vertically between the first adsorption element (81) and thesecond adsorption element (82). It is noted that the regeneration heatexchanger (102) may be arranged obliquely, of course, as shown by thebroken lines.

In the present modified example, also, the first operation and thesecond operation are performed alternately. During the first operationin the present example, one of the airs flows downward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81)for adsorption, while the other air flows downward through the humiditycontrol side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82) forregeneration (see FIG. 20A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows upward through the humidity control side paths (85) of thefirst adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while the other airflows upward through the humidity control side paths (85) of the secondadsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG. 20B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) areinclined opposite to each other in the shape of an inverted separate V.The regeneration heat exchanger (102) is arranged transversely betweenthe first adsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element(82).

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows obliquely downward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81)for adsorption, while the other air flows obliquely upward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82)for regeneration (see FIG. 21A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows obliquely upward through the humidity control side paths (85)of the first adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while the otherair flows obliquely downward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the second adsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG.21B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 22A and FIG. 22B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) areinclined in the same direction, and the regeneration heat exchanger(102) is arranged vertically therebetween. It is noted that theregeneration heat exchanger (102) may be, of course, arranged obliquely,as shown by the broken lines.

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows obliquely upward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81)for adsorption, while the other air flows obliquely downward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82)for regeneration (see FIG. 22A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows obliquely upward through the humidity control side paths (85)of the first adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while the otherair flows obliquely downward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the second adsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG.22B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) arearranged transversely, and the regeneration heat exchanger (102) isarranged vertically between the first adsorption element (81) and thesecond adsorption element (82).

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows upward through the humiditycontrol side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81) foradsorption, while the other air flows downward through the humiditycontrol side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82) forregeneration (see FIG. 23A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows downward through the humidity control side paths (85) of thefirst adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while the other airflows upward through the humidity control side paths (85) of the secondadsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG. 23B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 24A and FIG. 24B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) arearranged transversely, and the regeneration heat exchanger (102) isarranged vertically between the first adsorption element (81) and thesecond adsorption element (82). It is noted that the regeneration heatexchanger (102) may be arranged obliquely, of course, as indicated bythe broken lines.

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows downward through the humiditycontrol side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81) foradsorption, while the other air flows downward through the humiditycontrol side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82) forregeneration (see FIG. 24A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows upward through the humidity control side paths (85) of thefirst adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while the other airflows upward through the humidity control side paths (85) of the secondadsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG. 24B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 25A and FIG. 25B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) areinclined in the same direction, and the regeneration heat exchanger(102) is arranged transversely therebetween. It is noted that theregeneration heat exchanger (102) may be arranged obliquely, of course,as indicated by the broken lines.

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows obliquely downward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81)for adsorption, while the other air flows obliquely downward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82)for regeneration (see FIG. 25A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows obliquely upward through the humidity control side paths (85)of the first adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while the otherair flows obliquely upward through the humidity control side paths (85)of the second adsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG. 25B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 26A and FIG. 26B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) areinclined in the same direction, and the regeneration heat exchanger(102) is arranged transversely therebetween. It is noted that theregeneration heat exchanger (102) may be arranged obliquely, of course,as indicated by the broken lines.

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows obliquely upward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81)for adsorption, while the other air flows obliquely upward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82)for regeneration (see FIG. 26A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows obliquely downward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the first adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while theother air flows obliquely downward through the humidity control sidepaths (85) of the second adsorption element (82) for adsorption (seeFIG. 26B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) areinclined in the same direction, and the regeneration heat exchanger(102) is arranged transversally therebetween. It is noted that theregeneration heat exchanger (102) may be arranged obliquely, of course,as indicated by the broken lines.

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows obliquely upward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81)for adsorption, while the other air flows obliquely downward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82)for regeneration (see FIG. 27A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows obliquely downward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the first adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while theother air flows obliquely upward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the second adsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG.27B).

The example illustrated in FIG. 28A and FIG. 28B is that: the firstadsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82) areinclined opposite to each other in the shape of an inversed separate V.The regeneration heat exchanger (102) is arranged vertically between thefirst adsorption element (81) and the second adsorption element (82).

In the present example, also, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately. During the first operation in thepresent example, one of the airs flows obliquely upward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the first adsorption element (81)for adsorption, while the other air flows obliquely downward through thehumidity control side paths (85) of the second adsorption element (82)for regeneration (see FIG. 28A). During the second operation, one of theairs flows obliquely downward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the first adsorption element (81) for regeneration, while theother air flows obliquely upward through the humidity control side paths(85) of the second adsorption element (82) for adsorption (see FIG.28B).

Wherein, in each of the above embodiments and the modified examples, theregeneration heat exchanger (102) may be mere heating means for heatingair, and is not limited to a heat exchanger for performing heat exchangebetween the refrigerant and air. For example, the above heating meansmay be a hot water coil, an electric heater, and the like.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 2

Each of the above embodiments applies the present invention to ahumidity control device that performs ventilation of indoor air andhumidity control on air to be supplied indoors. However, applicableobjects of the present invention are not limited to the humidity controldevices of this kind.

First, the present invention is applicable also to humidity controldevices that perform humidity control on room air only. In the humiditycontrol devices of this kind, the first operation and the secondoperation are performed alternately in each of dehumidificationoperation and humidification operation.

As shown in FIG. 29A, during the first operation in the dehumidificationoperation, room air is cleaned by the first filter (301), and then,flows into the first adsorption element (81). The room air is, then,dehumidified by the first adsorption element (81), and is returned intothe room. On the other hand, outdoor air is heated by the regenerationheat exchanger (102), and then, flows into the second adsorption element(82) so that the high-temperature outdoor air regenerates the secondadsorption element (82). The outdoor air flowing out from the secondadsorption element (82) passes through the second filter (302). At thistime, dust and the like are removed from the second filter (302). Then,the outdoor air is discharged outdoors together with the dust and thelike removed from the second filter (302).

As shown in FIG. 29B, during the second operation in thedehumidification operation, room air is cleaned by the second filter(302), and then, flows into the second adsorption element (82). The roomair is, then, dehumidified by the second adsorption element (82), and isreturned into the room. On the other hand, outdoor air is heated by theregeneration heat exchanger (102), and then, flows into the firstadsorption element (81) so that the high-temperature outdoor airregenerates the first adsorption element (81). The outdoor air flowingout from the first adsorption element (81) passes through the firstfilter (301). At this time, dust and the like is removed from the firstfilter (301). Then, the outdoor air is discharged outdoors together withthe dust and the like removed from the first filter (301).

As shown in FIG. 30A, during the first operation in the humidificationoperation, room air is heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102).The heated room air is cleaned by the second filter (302), and then,flows into the second adsorption element (82) so that thehigh-temperature room air regenerates the second adsorption element(82). Then, moisture desorbed from the second adsorption element (82) isprovided to the room air, and the humidified room air is returned intothe room. On the other hand, the outdoor air is dehumidified whenpassing through the first adsorption element (81). The outdoor air ofwhich moisture is removed flows out from the first adsorption element(81), and passes through the first filter (301). At this time, dust andthe like are removed from the first filter (301). Thereafter, theoutdoor air is discharged outdoors together with the dust and the likeremoved from the first filter (301).

As shown in FIG. 30B, during the second operation in the humidificationoperation, room air is heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102).The heated room air is cleaned by the first filter (301), and then,flows into the first adsorption element (81) so that thehigh-temperature room air regenerates the first adsorption element (81).Then, moisture desorbed from the first adsorption element (81) isprovided to the room air, and the humidified room air is returned intothe room. On the other hand, outdoor air is dehumidified when passingthrough the second adsorption element (82). The outdoor air of whichmoisture is removed flows out from the second adsorption element (82),and passes through the second filter (302). At this time, dust and thelike is removed from the second filter (302). Thereafter, the outdoorair is discharged outdoors together with the dust and the like removedfrom the second filter (302).

Further, the present invention is applicable to humidity control devicesthat perform introduction of outdoor air into a room and humiditycontrol of the outdoor air to be introduced into the room. The humiditycontrol devices of this kind perform the first operation and the secondoperation alternately in each of the dehumidification operation and thehumidification operation.

As shown in FIG. 31A, during the first operation in the dehumidificationoperation, outdoor air is cleaned by the first filter (301), and then,flows into the first adsorption element (81). The outdoor air issupplied indoors after dehumidification by the first adsorption element(81). Independently therefrom, the outdoor air is heated by theregeneration heat exchanger (102), and then, flows into the secondadsorption element (82) so that the high-temperature outdoor airregenerates the second adsorption element (82). This outdoor air flowsout from the second adsorption element (82), and then, passes throughthe second filter (302). At this time, dust and the like are removedfrom the second filter (302). Thereafter, the outdoor air is dischargedoutdoors together with the dust and the like removed from the secondfilter (302).

As shown in FIG. 31B, during the second operation in thedehumidification operation, outdoor air is cleaned by the second filter(302), and then, flows into the second adsorption element (82). Theoutdoor air is supplied indoors after dehumidification by the secondadsorption element (82). Independently therefrom, the outdoor air isheated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102), and then, flows intothe first adsorption element (81) so that the high-temperature outdoorair regenerates the first adsorption element (81). This outdoor airflows out from the first adsorption element (81), and then, passesthrough the first filter (301). At this time, dust and the like areremoved from the first filter (301). Thereafter, the outdoor air isdischarged outdoors together with the dust and the like removed from thefirst filter (301).

As shown in FIG. 32A, during the first operation in the humidificationoperation, outdoor air is heated by the regeneration heat exchanger(102). The heated outdoor air is cleaned by the second filter (302), andthen, flows into the second adsorption element (82) so that thehigh-temperature outdoor air regenerates the second adsorption element(82). Then, moisture desorbed from the second adsorption element (82) isprovided to the outdoor air, and then, the humidified outdoor air issupplied indoors. Independently therefrom, the outdoor air isdehumidified when passing through the first adsorption element (81). Theoutdoor air of which moisture is removed flows out from the firstadsorption element (81), and then, passes through the first filter(301). At this time, dust and the like are removed from the first filter(301). Thereafter, the outdoor air is discharged outdoors together withthe dust and the like removed from the first filter (301).

As shown in FIG. 32B, during the second operation in the humidificationoperation, outdoor air is heated by the regeneration heat exchanger(102). The heated outdoor air is cleaned by the first filter (301), andthen, flows into the first adsorption element (81) so that thehigh-temperature outdoor air regenerates the first adsorption element(81). Then, moisture desorbed from the first adsorption element (81) isprovided to the outdoor air, and then, the humidified outdoor air issupplied indoors. Independently therefrom, the outdoor air isdehumidified when passing through the second adsorption element (82).This outdoor air of which moisture is removed flows out from the secondadsorption element (82), and then, passes through the second filter(302). At this time, dust and the like are removed from the secondfilter (302). Thereafter, the outdoor air is discharged outdoorstogether with the dust and the like removed from the second filter(302).

Further, the present invention is applicable to humidity control devicesthat perform room air discharge to outdoors and humidity control of theroom air. The humidity control devices of this kind perform the firstoperation and the second operation alternately in each of thedehumidification operation and the humidification operation.

As shown in FIG. 33A, during the first operation in the dehumidificationoperation, room air is cleaned by the first filter (301), and then,flows into the first adsorption element (81). The room air is returnedinto the room after dehumidification by the first adsorption element(81). Independently therefrom, the room air is heated by theregeneration heat exchanger (102), and then, flows into the secondadsorption element (82) so that the high-temperature room airregenerates the second adsorption element (82). This outdoor air flowsout from the second adsorption element (82), and then, passes throughthe second filter (302). At this time, dust and the like are removedfrom the second filter (302). Thereafter, the room air is dischargedoutdoors together with the dust and the like removed from the secondfilter (302).

As shown in FIG. 33B, during the second operation in thedehumidification operation, room air is cleaned by the second filter(302), and then, flows into the second adsorption element (82). The roomair is returned into the room after dehumidification by the secondadsorption element (82). Independently therefrom, the room air is heatedby the regeneration heat exchanger (102), and then, flows into the firstadsorption element (81) so that the high-temperature room airregenerates the first adsorption element (81). This room air flows outfrom the first adsorption element (81), and then, passes through thefirst filter (301). At this time, dust and the like are removed from thefirst filter (301). Thereafter, the room air is discharged outdoorstogether with the dust and the like removed from the first filter (301).

As shown in FIG. 34A, during the first operation in the humidificationoperation, room air is heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102).The heated room air is cleaned by the second filter (302), and then,flows into the second adsorption element (82) so that thehigh-temperature room air regenerates the second adsorption element(82). Then, moisture desorbed from the second adsorption element (82) isprovided to the room air, and then, the humidified room air is returnedinto the room. Independently therefrom, the room air is dehumidifiedwhen passing through the first adsorption element (81). This room air ofwhich moisture is removed flows out from the first adsorption element(81), and then, passes through the first filter (301). At this time,dust and the like are removed from the first filter (301). Thereafter,the room air is discharged outdoors together with the dust and the likeremoved from the first filter (301).

As shown in FIG. 34B, during the second operation in the humidificationoperation, room air is heated by the regeneration heat exchanger (102).The heated room air is cleaned by the first filter (301), and then,flows into the first adsorption element (81) so that thehigh-temperature room air regenerates the first adsorption element (81).Then, moisture desorbed from the first adsorption element (81) isprovided to the room air, and then, the humidified room air is returnedinto the room. Independently therefrom, the room air is dehumidifiedwhen passing through the second adsorption element (82). This room airof which moisture is removed flows out from the second adsorptionelement (82), and then, passes through the second filter (302). At thistime, dust and the like are removed from the second filter (302).Thereafter, the room air is discharged outdoors together with the dustand the like removed from the second filter (302).

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 3

Each of the above embodiments applies the present invention to ahumidity control device that includes the adsorption elements (81, 82)as the air conditioning elements for performing ventilation and humiditycontrol. However, applicable objects of the present invention are notlimited to the humidity control devices of this kind. For example, thepresent invention is applicable to a ventilation system (3) including atotal heat exchanger (363) as the air conditioning element. Herein, theventilation system (3) to which the present invention is applied will bedescribed.

As shown in FIG. 35A through FIG. 35C, the total heat exchanger (363) isaccommodated inside a hollow casing (350) in a flat, rectangular solidshape in the ventilation system (3).

In the casing (350), an outdoor air intake port (351) and an air exhaustport (354) are formed in a right end face in FIG. 35A. The inside of thecasing (350) communicates with an outdoor space as the first spacethrough the outdoor air intake port (351) and the air exhaust port(354). On the other hand, an air supply port (352) and an room airintake port (353) are formed in a left end face of the casing (350) inFIG. 35A. The inside of the casing (350) communicates with an indoorspace as the second space through the air supply port (352) and the roomair intake port (353).

The total heat exchanger (363) is formed in a square pole shaped havingsquare end faces, as shown in FIG. 36. In the total heat exchanger(363), a plurality of first passages (364) and a plurality of secondpassages (365) are formed alternately in the longitudinal direction. Thefirst passages (364) open at each of a pair of opposing faces, and thesecond passages (365) open at each of another pair of opposing faces.Each partition between the first passages (364) and the second passages(365) is made of a material having moisture permeability, such as paper.

In the casing (350), the total heat exchanger (363) is arranged in themiddle in the transverse direction in FIG. 35A so that the longitudinaldirection thereof goes along the depth direction of the casing (350)(i.e., a direction perpendicular to the paper of FIG. 35A). Further, thetotal heat exchanger (363) is rotatable around the axial center thereof.

A first filter (366) and a second filter (367) are mounted to the totalheat exchanger (363). The first filter (366) is arranged so as to coverone of the side faces at which the first passages (364) open in thetotal heat exchanger (363). On the other hand, the second filter (367)is arranged so as to cover one of the side faces at which the secondpassages (365) open in the total heat exchanger (363).

The right and left spaces on the respective sides of the total heatexchanger (363) in the casing (350) are partitioned transversely. In theright space on the right side of the total heat exchanger (363), theupper space continues to the outdoor air intake port (351) and the lowerspace continues to the air exhaust port (354). Also, an air exhaust fan(369) as air conveying means is provided in this lower space. On theother hand, in the left space on the left side of the total heatexchanger (363), the upper space continues to the room air intake port(353), and the lower space continues to the air supply port (352). Also,an air supply fan (368) as air conveying means is provided in the lowerspace. In the casing (350), the upper left and lower right spaces on therespective sides of the total heat exchanger (363) compose an airexhaust path (361) as the first air path, and the upper right and lowerleft spaces on the respective sides of the total heat exchanger (363)compose an air supply path (362) as the second air path.

As shown in FIG. 35A, during normal operation, the posture of the totalheat exchanger (363) is set so that the first filter (366) is located onthe outdoor air intake port (351) side and the second filter (367) islocated on the room air intake port (353) side.

When the air supply fan (368) is driven, outdoor air taken into thecasing (350) from the outdoor air intake port (351) flows into the airsupply path (362). The outdoor air is cleaned by the first filter (366),and then, flows into the first passages (364) of the total heatexchanger (363). On the other hand, when the air exhaust fan (369) isdriven, room air taken into the casing (350) from the room air intakeport (353) flows into the air exhaust path (361). The room air iscleaned by the second filter (367), and then, flows into the secondpassages (365) of the total heat exchanger (363)

The total heat exchanger (363) performs exchange of heat and moisturebetween the introduced outdoor air and room air. For example, for indoorheating in winter season, heat and moisture move from the room air tothe outdoor air. Then, the room air of which heat and moisture areremoved is discharged outdoors from the air exhaust port (354), whilethe outdoor air to which heat and moisture are provided is suppliedindoors from the air supply port (352). In reverse, for indoor coolingin summer season, heat and moisture move from the outdoor air to theroom air. Then, the outdoor air from which heat and moisture are removedis supplied indoors from the air supply port (352), while the room airto which heat and moisture are provided is discharged outdoors from theair discharge port (354).

In cleaning operation, the posture of the total heat exchanger (363) isset as shown in FIG. 35B first. Specifically, the total heat exchanger(363) is rotated clockwise by 90 degrees from the state shown in FIG.35A so that the first filter (366) is located on the air exhaust port(354) side and the second filter (367) is located on the outdoor airintake port (351) side.

Under this state, room air flowing in the air exhaust path (361) passesthrough the total heat exchanger (363), and then, the first filter(366). Dust and the like captured at the first filter (366) are removedfrom the first filter (366) by the flow of the room air, to bedischarged outdoors from the air exhaust port (354) together with theroom air. During this operation, the second filter (367) captures dustand the like in the outdoor air.

Subsequently, the posture of the total heat exchanger (363) is set asshown in FIG. 36C. Specifically, the total heat exchanger (363) isrotated clockwise by 90 degrees from the state shown in FIG. 35B so thatthe first filter (366) is located on the air supply port (352) side andthe second filter (367) is located on the air exhaust port (354) side.

Under this state, room air flowing in the air exhaust path (361) passesthrough the total heat exchanger (363), and then, the second filter(367). Dust and the like captured at the second filter (367) are removedfrom the second filter (367) by the flow of the room air, to bedischarged outdoors from the air exhaust port (354) together with theroom air.

In this way, in the cleaning operation, the posture of the total heatexchanger (363) is changed to the state shown in FIG. 35B and the stateshown in FIG. 35C to perform cleaning of the first filter (366) and thesecond filter (367). Thereafter, the posture of the total heat exchanger(363) is returned to the state shown in FIG. 35A.

It should be noted that the two filters (366, 367) are mounted to thetotal heat exchanger (363) in the present modified example, but only onefilter (366) may be mounted to the heat exchanger (363) as shown in FIG.37A and FIG. 37B.

In this case, the posture of the total heat exchanger (363) is set sothat the filter (366) is located on the outdoor air intake port (351)side (see FIG. 37A) during the normal operation. On the other hand, theposture of the total heat exchanger (363) is changed so that the filter(366) is located on the air exhaust port (354) side (see FIG. 37B) inthe cleaning operation. In short, the total heat exchanger (363) isrotated clockwise by 90 degrees from the state shown in FIG. 37A.

Under this state, room air flowing in the air exhaust path (361) passesthrough the total heat exchanger (363), and then, the filter (366). Dustand the like captured at the filter (366) is removed from the filter(366) by the flow of the room air, to be discharged outdoors from theair exhaust port (354) together with the room air. It is noted that theair supply fan (368) is preferably halted during the cleaning operationfor preventing outdoor air from flowing into the total heat exchanger(363) without being subjected to cleaning.

It should be noted that the normal operation and the cleaning operationare exchanged alternately by rotating the total heat exchanger (363) inthe above ventilation system (3), but the normal operation and thecleaning operation may be exchanged by changing air flowing routes withthe use of a damper or the like. In other words, it is possible that thetotal heat exchanger (363) is fixed while changing the air flowingroutes so as to allow air to flow from the filter (366, 367) to thetotal heat exchanger (363) during the normal operation and so as toallow air to flow from the total heat exchanger (363) to the filter(366, 367).

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 4

Each of the above embodiments applies the present invention to ahumidity control device that includes the adsorption elements (81, 82)as the air conditioning elements for perforimng ventilation and humiditycontrol. However, applicable objects of the present invention are notlimited to the humidity control devices of this kind. For example, thepresent invention is applicable to a heat exchange system (4) includinga sensible heat exchanger (383) as the air conditioning element. Theheat exchange system (4) is utilized for cooling, by outdoor air, insidea room that accommodates, for example, a large-scaled electronicinstrument having a comparatively large heat generation rate.

As shown in FIG. 38A, through 38C, the heat exchange system (4) to whichthe present invention is applied has substantially the same constructionas that of the ventilation system (3) in the Modified Example 3. Thedifferent features of the heat exchange system (4) in the presentmodified example from the ventilation system (3) of Modified Example 3will be described here mainly.

Similar to that in Modified Example 3, a casing (370) of the heatexchange system (4) is formed in a rectangular solid shape. In thecasing (370), a room air inlet (371) and an air exhaust port (374) areformed in the end face on the right side of FIG. 38A, and an outdoor airinlet (373) and an air supply port (372) are formed in the left end faceon the left side of FIG. 38A.

In the casing, (370), the sensible heat exchanger (383) is provided. Thesensible heat exchanger (383) has the same construction as that of thetotal heat exchanger (363) in Modified Example 3. Specifically, thesensible heat exchanger (383) is formed in a square pole shape as awhole, and includes a plurality of first passages (384) and a pluralityof second passages (385). Wherein, in the sensible heat exchanger (383),each partition between the first passages (384) and the second passages(383) is made of a material having no moisture permeability, such as aresin plate. The sensible heat exchanger (383) performs heat exchangebetween air flowing in the first passages (384) and air flowing in thesecond passages (385).

The sensible heat exchanger (383) is provided in the casing with theposture thereof set likewise the total heat exchanger (363) of ModifiedExample 3. Further, the sensible heat exchanger (383) is rotatablearound the axial center, similar to the total heat exchanger (363) ofModified Example 3. In the sensible heat exchanger (383), also, a firstfilter (386) is mounted so as to cover one of the side faces at whichthe first passages (384) open, and a second filter (387) is mounted soas to cover one of the side faces at which the second passages (385)open.

The inside of the casing (370) is divided into four spaces, likewise theventilation system (3) of Modified Example 3. The upper right spacecontinuing to a room air inlet (371) and the lower left space continuingto an air supply port (372) compose a room air path (382) as the airpath, and the upper left space continuing to an outdoor air inlet (373)and the lower right space continuing to an air exhaust air port (374)compose an outdoor air path (381) as the air path. Further, in thecasing (370), a room air fan (388) is provided in the lower left space,and an outdoor air fan (389) is provided in the lower right space (389).The room air fan (383) and the outdoor air fan (389) compose airconveying means.

As shown in FIG. 38A, during normal operation, the posture of thesensible heat exchanger (383) is set so that the first filter (386) islocated on the room air inlet (371) side and the second filter (387) islocated on the outdoor air inlet (373) side. Under this state, room aircleaned by the first filter (386) and outdoor air cleaned by the secondfilter (387) are introduced into the sensible heat exchanger (383).Then, the room air that has passed through the sensible heat exchanger(383) is sent into a room, while the outdoor air that has passed throughthe sensible heat exchanger (383) is discharged outdoors.

In cleaning operation, the posture of the sensible heat exchanger (383)is first set as shown in FIG. 38B. Specifically, the sensible heatexchanger (383) is rotated clockwise by 90 degrees from the state shownin FIG. 38A so that the first filter (386) is located on the air exhaustport (374) side, while the second filter (387) is located on the roomair inlet (371) side. Under this state, outdoor air passes through thesensible heat exchanger (383), and then, the first filter (386). Dustand the like captured at the first filter (386) are removed from thefirst filter (386) by the flow of the outdoor air, to be discharged fromthe exhaust air port (374) outdoors together with the outdoor air.

Subsequently, the posture of the sensible heat exchanger (383) is set asshown in FIG. 38C. Specifically, the sensible heat exchanger (383) isrotated clockwise by 90 degrees from the state shown in FIG. 38B so thatthe first filter (386) is located on the air supply port (372) sidewhile the second filter (387) is located on the air exhaust port (374)side. Under this state, outdoor air passes through sensible heatexchanger (383), and then, the second filter (387). Dust and the likecaptured at the second filter (387) are removed from the second filter(387) by the flow of the outdoor air, to be discharged from the airexhaust port (374) outdoors together with the outdoor air.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described above, the present invention is useful for ventilationsystems for subjecting outdoor air to treatment and supplying indoors.

1. An air conditioner, comprising: air paths (53, 54, . . . ) thatcommunicate with either or both of a first space (311) and a secondspace (312); an air conditioning element (81, 82, . . . ) for adjustingat least one of temperature and humidity of air flowing in the air paths(53, 54, . . . ) toward the second space (312); a filter (301, 302, . .. ) for capturing a foreign matter in air flowing in the air paths (53,54, . . . ) from the first space (311) toward the air conditioningelement (81, 82, . . . ); and air conveying means (95, 96) that conveysthe air in the air paths (53, 54, . . . ), wherein the air of which atleast one of temperature and humidity is adjusted is supplied to thesecond space (312), and normal operation in which air passes in the airpaths (53, 54, . . . ) through the filter (301, 302, . . . ), and then,through the air conditioning element (81, 82, . . . ), to be supplied tothe second space (312); and cleaning operation in which air passes inthe air paths (53, 54, . . . ) through the air conditioning element (81,82, . . . ), and then, through the filter (301, 302, . . . ), to bedischarged to the first space (311) are performable.
 2. The airconditioner of claim 1, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having anadsorbent is provided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53to 56) communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space(312), the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space(311) to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space(312) to the first space (311), and adsorption operation as the normaloperation, in which the air from the first space (311) flows through thefilter (301, 302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order toallow the adsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisture in the air, andthen, is supplied to the second space (312); and regeneration operationas the cleaning operation in which the air from the second space (312)flows through the adsorption element (81, 82) and the filter (301, 302)in this order to regenerate the adsorption element (81, 82) by the air,and then, is discharged to the first space (311) are performedselectively.
 3. The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein an adsorptionelement (81, 82) having an adsorbent is provided as the air conditioningelement, the air paths (53 to 56) communicate with both the first space(311) and the second space (312), the air conveying means (95, 96)conveys air from the first space (311) to the second space (312) andconveys air from the second space (312) to the first space (311), afirst space side filter (301 a, 302 a) as the filter is provided on thefirst space (311) side of the adsorption element (81, 82) in the airpaths (53 to 56), a second space side filter (301 b, 302 b) is providedon the second space (312) side of the adsorption element (81, 82) in theair paths (53 to 56), and adsorption operation as the normal operationin which the air from the first space (311) flows through the firstspace side filter (301 a, 302 a), the adsorption element (81, 82), andthe second space side filter (301 b, 302 b) in this order to allow theadsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisture in the air, and then, issupplied to the second space (312); and regeneration operation as thecleaning operation in which the air from the second space (312) flowsthrough the second space side filter (301 b, 302 b), the adsorptionelement (81, 82), and the first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) in thisorder to regenerate the adsorption element (81, 82) by the air, andthen, is discharged to the first space (311) are performed selectively.4. The air conditioner of claim 2 or 3, wherein the first space servesas an outdoor space (311), while the second space serves as an indoorspace (312), and the adsorption operation dehumidifies the indoor space(312).
 5. The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein an adsorption element(81, 82) having an adsorbent is provided as the air conditioningelement, the air paths (53 to 56) communicate with both the first space(311) and the second space (312), the air conveying means (95, 96)conveys air from the first space (311) to the second space (312) andconveys air from the second space (312) to the first space (311), andregeneration operation as the normal operation in which the air from thefirst space (311) flows through the filter (301, 302) and the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in this order to regenerate the adsorption element (81,82) by the air, and then, is supplied to the second space (312); andadsorption operation as the cleaning operation in which the air from thesecond space (312) flows through the adsorption element (81, 82) and thefilter (301, 302) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82)to adsorb moisture in the air, and then is discharged to the first space(311) are performed selectively.
 6. The air conditioner of claim 1,wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent is providedas the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56) communicatewith both the first space (311) and the second space (312), the airconveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311) to thesecond space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) to thefirst space (311), a first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) as thefilter is provided on the first space (311) side of the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), a second space side filter(301 b, 302 b) is provided on the second space (312) side of theadsorption element (81, 82) in the air paths (56 to 56), andregeneration operation as the normal operation in which the air from thefirst space (311) flows through the first space side filter (301 b, 302b), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the second space side filter(301 a, 302 a) in this order to regenerate the adsorption element (81,82) by the air, and then, is supplied to the second space (312); andadsorption operation as the cleaning operation in which the air from thesecond space (312) flows through the second space side filter (301 a,302 a), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the first space side filter(301 b, 302 b) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82) toadsorb moisture in the air, and then, is discharged to the first space(311) are performed selectively.
 7. The air conditioner of claim 5 or 6,wherein the first space serves as an outdoor space (311), while thesecond space serves as an indoor space (312), and the regenerationoperation humidifies the indoor space (312).
 8. The air conditioner ofclaim 1, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), and first adsorption operation as the normaloperation in which the air from the first space (311) flows through thefilter (301, 302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order toallow the adsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisture in the air, andthen, is supplied to the second space (312); first regenerationoperation as the cleaning operation in which the air from the secondspace (312) flows through the adsorption element (81, 82) and the filter(301, 302) in this order to regenerate the adsorption element (81, 82)by the air, and then is discharged to the first space (311); secondadsorption operation as the cleaning operation in which the air from thesecond space (312) flows through the adsorption element (81, 82) and thefilter (301, 302) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82)to adsorb moisture in the air, and then is discharged to the first space(311); and second regeneration operation as the normal operation inwhich the air from the first space (311) flows through the filter (301,302) and the adsorption element (81, 82) in this order to regenerate theadsorption element (81, 82) by the air, and then, is supplied to thesecond space (312) are performed selectively.
 9. The air conditioner ofclaim 1, wherein an adsorption element (81, 82) having an adsorbent isprovided as the air conditioning element, the air paths (53 to 56)communicate with both the first space (311) and the second space (312),the air conveying means (95, 96) conveys air from the first space (311)to the second space (312) and conveys air from the second space (312) tothe first space (311), a first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) as thefilter is provided on the first space (311) side of the adsorptionelement (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), a second space side filter(301 b, 302 b) is provided on the second space (312) side of theadsorption element (81, 82) in the air paths (53 to 56), and firstadsorption operation as the normal operation in which the air from thefirst space (311) flows through the first space side filter (301 a, 302a), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the second space side filter(301 b, 302 b) in this order to allow the adsorption element (81, 82) toadsorb moisture in the air, and then, is supplied to the second space(312); first regeneration operation as the cleaning operation, in whichthe air from the second space (312) flows through the second space sidefilter (301 b, 302 b), the adsorption element (81, 82), and the firstspace side filter (301 a, 302 a) in this order to regenerate theadsorption element (81, 82) by the air, and then is supplied to thefirst space (311); second adsorption operation as the cleaning operationin which the air from the second space (312) flows through the secondspace side filter (301 b, 302 b), the adsorption element (81, 82), andthe first space side filter (301 a, 302 a) in this order to allow theadsorption element (81, 82) to adsorb moisture in the air, and then issupplied to the first space (311); and second regeneration operation asthe normal operation in which the air from the first space (311) flowsthrough the first space side filter (301 a, 302 a), the adsorptionelement (81, 82), and the second space side filter (301 b, 302 b) inthis order to regenerate the adsorption element (81, 82) by the air, andthen, is supplied to the second space (312) are performed selectively.10. The air conditioner of claim 8 or 9, wherein the first space servesas an outdoor space (311), while the second space serves as an indoorspace (312), and the first adsorption operation dehumidifies the indoorspace (312), while the second regeneration operation humidifies theindoor space (312).
 11. The air conditioner of claims 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, or9, wherein the first adsorption element (81) and the first filter (301)are provided in the first air path (53, 54), while the second adsorptionelement (82) and the second filter (302) are provided in the second airpath (55, 56), and first operation in which the adsorption operation forthe first adsorption element (81) and the regeneration operation for thesecond adsorption element (82) are performed simultaneously; and secondoperation in which the regeneration operation for the first adsorptionelement (81) and the adsorption operation for the second adsorptionelement (82) are performed simultaneously are performed alternately. 12.The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein air flows from the first space(311) to the second space (312) in the first air path (251), while airflows from the second space (312) to the first space (311) in the secondair path (252), a rotating rotary adsorption element (253) that has anadsorbent and is arranged so as to cross the first air path (251) andthe second air path (252) is provided as the air conditioning element, arotary filter (254) for rotating integrally with the rotary adsorptionelement (253) which is arranged on the first space (311) side of therotary adsorption element (253) so as to cross the first air path (251)and the second air path (252) is provided as the filter, and operationin which air flows through the rotary filter (254) and the rotaryadsorption element (253) in this order in the first air path (251) toallow the rotary adsorption element (253) to adsorb moisture in the air,and then, is supplied to the second space (312) is performed as thenormal operation, and simultaneously therewith, operation, in which airflows through the rotary adsorption element (253) and the rotary filter(254) in this order in the second air path (252) to regenerate therotary adsorption element (253) by the air, and then, is discharged tothe first space (311), is performed as the cleaning operation.
 13. Theair conditioner of claim 1, wherein air flows from the second space(312) to the first space (311) in the first air path (251), while airflows from the first space (311) to the second space (312) in the secondair path (252), a rotating rotary adsorption element (253) that has anadsorbent and is arranged so as to cross the first air path (251) andthe second air path (252) is provided as the air conditioning element, arotary filter (254) for rotating integrally with the rotary adsorptionelement (253) which is arranged on the first space (311) side of therotary adsorption element (253) so as to cross the first air path (251)and the second air path (252) is provided as the filter, and operationin which air flows through the rotary adsorption element (253) and therotary filter (254) in this order in the first air path (251) to allowthe rotary adsorption element (253) to adsorb moisture in the air, andthen, is discharged to the first space (311), is performed as the normaloperation, and simultaneously therewith, operation in which air flowsthrough the rotary filter (254) and the rotary adsorption element (253)in this order to in the second air path (252) regenerate the rotaryadsorption element (253) by the air, and then, is supplied to the secondspace (312) is performed as the cleaning operation.
 14. The airconditioner of claim 12 or 13, wherein the first space serves as anoutdoor space (311), while the second space serves as an indoor space(312).
 15. The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein air flows from thesecond space (312) to the first space (311) in the first air path (361),while air flows from the first space (311) to the second space (312) inthe second air path, and a total heat exchanger (363) for exchangingheat and moisture between the air flowing in the first air path (251)and the air flowing in the second air path (252) is provided as the airconditioning element.